In corporate America, it's common practice to invite a prospective employee to lunch but don't think it's simply to butter you up! The real purpose is to test your social skills and knowledge of etiquette. After all, you may be representing their company some day naturally they want to hire people who know how to conduct themselves properly.

If you've already been hired, that lunch invitation may be way of welcoming you on board; but it's your way of confirming the impression that you're someone with a bright future in the company.

Never underestimate the importance of etiquette in the business world! To put it in simplistic business terms: invest in good manners, use them to market yourself properly, and watch your career stock rise, rise, rise!

Whether you are a future or a current employee, some of the most important opportunities of your career may start with an invitation to dine out.

You are dressed for success... the right suit, accessories and hairstyle. Now, can you pass the "table etiquette" test? When you get the call, will you be ready?

This book will help you take the "guesswork" out of being a "guest." Twenty-five tips in twenty-five minutes.

Etiquette, Schmetiquette

Etiquette is the foundation upon which social structure is built. Every human contact is made smooth by etiquette, or awkward by lack of it. Emily Post, 1928

Post mortem? Many of you may argue that the world has relaxed quite a bit since Emily Post's observations back in 1928; and indeed, it is true that some of the rules of etiquette have eased up or evolved over the years. Still, the fact remains that there are behavioral "do's and don'ts" that still set us apart from the crowd and help us make the best possible impression.

The rules still rule! Imagine a game of golf or tennis without any rules how would you know what to do, or when to do it? Who goes first? How do you win? Rules cut through the chaos and help us set strategies and make effective decisions: without them, it's every man for himself.As it is on the playing field, so it is in a social or business setting. Etiquette is simply the rules of social interaction, guidelines that have been set up over the years to help us play the game of life gracefully and graciously. Some of them may seem arbitrary or old-fashioned to you; yet they assure that we are all "on the same page," which is a good way of creating rapport with those around us, and thereby attracting social and business contacts.

Learn the rules of business etiquette, and practice them until they become second nature. One of the advantages they offer is that they are an easy antidote to social awkwardness.

They give you the skills you need to behave with confidence in any setting, and thereby increase your chances for advancement.

A FEW BASIC GROUND RULES

Equality of the sexes. In a business setting, there's no "ladies first" men and women are considered equal, and are treated according to rank not gender. Remember, that the rules of business etiquette apply here, as opposed to a social setting in which traditional etiquette is still observed.

Follow the leader. When in doubt, take all cues from your host. If, however, the host doesn't know proper business etiquette --- pity

Tip #1ACCEPTING THE INVITATIONor, ready, get set, go ... where?

Knowledge is power.Don't be so flattered by that business invitation that you forget to find out exactly where and when you are supposed to meet. In fact, it's a good idea to reiterate the TIME, PLACE and PURPOSE of the meeting at least once before ending the conversation.

Silence is not golden.A loss for words can mean a loss of opportunity make sure you know the agenda of the meeting. If you are an employee, find out if the purpose of the lunch is to discuss new business, go over something you've worked on, or just to say "thank you."

If this is a job interview, be prepared to talk about your education, job history and qualifications; and for goodness sake, know something about the company that is interviewing you, including the names of top management. Also think about why you might want to work there, since you will almost certainly be asked.

There's more to it than just saying "yes!"Sound interested and appreciative of a business invitation. Even if you have some doubts about whether this is the perfect company for you, put them aside for a moment remember that a lunch invitation is generally a chance to learn more about each other. Why close a door before you've had a chance to peek inside?

Cancellation policy. If you have to cancel, call personally. It's a good idea to reschedule then and there, if you can: otherwise, try to set up a new date as soon as possible.

Tip #4WHAT TO DO TILL THE HOST ARRIVES or,when the guy serving the food isnt the only waiter

You know what they say about the early bird!It's always a good idea to arrive a little early. Most people value punctuality and one thing is certain: no one will ever fault you for arriving first!

Location, location, location!The host should have indicated exactly where to meet; i.e., at the reception area, in the hotel lobby, or at the bar. "What about waiting at the table?" you may ask. It is not proper to touch anything until the host arrives, so waiting at the table can be awkward. Why put yourself in the position of having to slap your own wrist when you want to reach for that bread basket?